Mississippi State upsets No. 15 Tennessee women 77-62

Kharyssa Richardson scores 21 points to lead Bulldogs to second win over ranked opponent this season

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:55pm

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Kharyssa Richardson scored 21 points and Mississippi State defeated No. 15 Tennessee 77-62 on Thursday night. It's the second win of the season for the Bulldogs (16-6, 3-5 SEC) against a ranked opponent, after they lost to the Volunteers 90-80 earlier this month. The loss was the first home and conference defeat for Tennessee (14-4, 6-1 SEC), who entered on a seven-game winning streak as the last remaining undefeated team in SEC play.

Why it matters

This upset victory over a highly ranked Tennessee team is a significant accomplishment for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, who have struggled in SEC play this season. It demonstrates their ability to compete with the conference's elite programs and could provide a boost of confidence as they look to make a push towards the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Richardson was 9 of 11 from the floor and scored 16 in the second half. Trayanna Crisp added 15 points, Madison Francis had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and Favour Nwaedozi recorded a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds. Mississippi State dominated the glass with a 50-31 rebounding advantage and outscored Tennessee 35-11 on the fast break.

  • The game was tied at 26 with 2:31 left in the first half, but Mississippi State closed the half on a 9-0 run.
  • The Bulldogs then opened the second half with an 11-3 run to build a 14-point lead at the 5:53 mark of the third quarter.
  • Mississippi State's lead grew to as much as 20 points and never dropped below double digits from that point on.

The players

Kharyssa Richardson

A Mississippi State player who scored 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting, including 16 in the second half.

Trayanna Crisp

A Mississippi State player who added 15 points for the Bulldogs.

Talaysia Cooper

A Tennessee player who led the Volunteers with 19 points.

Mia Pauldo

A Tennessee player who had 13 points and four steals.

Janiah Barker

A Tennessee player who added 10 points and six rebounds.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.